Thornburg to pitch out of ‘pen

The Brewers are bringing right-handed pitching prospect Tyler Thornburg back to the big leagues for the second half, this time to pitch out of the bullpen.

Thornburg will be active beginning Friday, replacing righty Tim Dillard after the Brewers outrighted Dillard to Triple-A Nashville. Dillard, who had been with the big league club all season, has the right to refuse the assignment and elect free agency if he chooses.

The Brewers also made official that they will purchase infielder Jeff Bianchi’s contract from Nashville, a move manager Ron Roenicke discussed last night after the All-Star Game.

Thornburg made a start for the Brewers against the Blue Jays in June but will be used in relief “for now,” general manager Doug Melvin said.

“We think he’s another good arm who can help us in the bullpen,” Melvin said. “That doesn’t mean he can’t start again later on if we need him.”

One way the Brewers could need Thornburg later on is if they opt to trade Zack Greinke before the July 31 nonwaiver Trade Deadline.

Melvin conceded that this will require an adjustment for Thornburg but said it will also help limit his innings. The Brewers are encouraged by his strong season and do not want to push Thornburg too far.

The team is working out at Miller Park on Thursday afternoon; look for more coverage of the roster moves at Brewers.com that night.

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